Gambling provides one of the fastest ways to acquire income within a short period. Also, you not only acquire income but also get entertained by playing with partners or machines. However, it is best to remember that these casinos are also businesses. Therefore, their main aim is to get as much as possible from the gamblers. For this reason, each slot game is designed to help a casino gain money, at least in the long run. However, this should not scare you from betting and playing at casinos. Besides, you must take risks to get income.

The good news is that even as the casinos wait to make their profits in the long run, you can win a lump sum on slot game sessions within a few minutes or hours. Get lucky at UFABET, where betting is made more accessible, whether you are a newbie or have been in the industry.

Check below for excellent slot machine tactics that will guarantee you incredible wins.

Research the Return to Player Percentages

Typically, each slot has a designated return to player percentage(RTP). This figure showcases the total amount you are expected to lose in a particular game. For instance, a 97% RTP indicates that you will receive 97 dollars from every 100 dollars you wager on each game. In simpler terms, the higher the RTP, the better your chances of making small profits. However, even though low RTP slots might seem like a losing proposition, there is always a twist. These games will offer a reduced return to player percentage since they have bigger jackpots or top prizes.

Thus, the best slot machine tactic in such a case is to play high RTP games but for a short while and exit when you are ahead. On the other hand, play longer sessions on lower RTP games, considering that the larger prize money comes in less often.

Bet with What You Can Comfortably Afford

While showing off and boasting your skills in a casino is often tempting, betting is not about that. This is because showing off will see that you overspend, especially if you lose in several games. It is best to bet with only what you can comfortably afford without straining your pockets. This means that all your basic needs should be sorted first, and then use the extra money to bet. UFA SLOT will provide an easy and fantastic way to bet, especially if you are new in the industry.

Understand How Slots Work

Usually, most gamblers will be tempted to dive into the lucrative slots they see when they visit a casino. It is after you feed your cash to the machine and press the spin button that you will realize you have no idea of what is happening. Such instances will make you miss out on exciting bonuses leading to making wrong decisions that will cost you heavily. Investigating how your prospective slot machine works is advisable to maximize your winnings. You can do this by assessing the pay table provided within the game, showing what the symbols are and their worth.

Do Not Go Chasing the Jackpot

Even though winning slot jackpots is a sure way to maximize your winnings, the chances of it happening are low. This might be devastating to hear, but it is the truth. Nevertheless, this does not mean you should avoid playing slots; instead, strategize your moves and plan how much you wish to spend in a particular game. Do not be carried away by winning a fortune and end up pouring all your money there.

But, this rule can be exempted when the slot’s base game pays out frequently. Here, you can play for an extended period, and the jackpot payout will likely be easy.

Is gambling a form of investing? This article is going to investigate.

You may have heard people in the past talking about how gambling is similar to investing in the stock markets. This is true to some extent as both risk money in order to make more than they started with.

There is more to it though. Both investing and gambling require knowledge of what they’re either investing or playing, otherwise there is no way that they will profit.

It’s also important for both an investor and a gambler to pay attention to how much capital they are willing to risk. If it’s not managed properly, it becomes more likely they lose bigger than they should.

It can be seen already that investing and gambling are quite similar. But how and why are they considered different?

To get to the bottom of this, it’s important to first define the terms ‘investing’ and gambling.

 

What Is Investing?

Investing is committing funds to a certain asset with the expectation that it will grow in value to make a profit. The important word here is ‘expectation’. Investors make their money expecting, rather than hoping, that their assets will increase in value.

 

Investing requires an understanding of risk and return: investing in low-risk assets generally means that returns are expected to be low, while investing in assets at higher risk generally means that returns are expected to be high.

It always comes down to how much an investor is willing to risk in their asset. The standard amount is usually around 2% of their total capital per trade.

To gain an advantage and make money, traders study the markets and current affairs to get a better understanding of their movements. For example, they will look at their charts and look for patterns that have happened in the past and use their results to predict how the current asset price will move.

This process is known as technical analysis.

It’s also important to note that an investor’s returns can sometimes be affected by the commission they pay to a broker that buys or sells their assets on their behalf.

Finally, investors own a part of the company they are investing in.

 

What Is Gambling?

 

Gambling is the act of staking money on a contingency rather than an asset. It involves risking money on an event with the hope that it makes money.

Straight away, this definition shows a difference between gambling and investing. Traditionally, gambling has no certain outcome and relies a lot on chance. 

But there are ways to reduce the risk, such as creating a data-driven strategy. Particularly in used in sports betting, this involves analyzing the results of previous games, creating a theory and then backtesting it to make a profit.

Like investors, gamblers should also keep an eye on how much capital they are willing to use per bet. For example, in card games like poker, pot odds are a great way to determine risk versus reward during a hand. When the odds are in the player’s favor, it’s more likely that they will call a bet.

For casino games, gamblers play against the casino itself, known as ‘the house’. In sports betting, while they are in theory betting against the house, it’s the other players that determine the odds of the event they are betting on. The more money that goes on one side of the betting line, the shorter the odds become.

Gamblers are commonly faced with situations where they do not expect to win. For example, in blackjack, when the dealer is dealt a ten and the player is dealt a six, the chances of winning are slim. 

So, here are some key takeaways from these two definitions:

1. Both investing and gambling risk money in an attempt to make a profit.
2. Both investing and gambling use tactics to minimize risk.
3. Both investing and gambling can use resources to improve accuracy.
4. Investors have more resources available to mitigate losses.
5. Gamblers play knowing that the odds are not in their favor.

Mitigating Losses

This is an interesting topic. 

Investors have multiple ways to prevent them from losing too much of their capital. One such method is by setting stop losses on asset investment. If the price drops below 5% of the purchase price, there is an opportunity to exit the trade and sell that asset to someone else, retaining 95% of the risk capital.

Now, in terms of gambling, some people will argue that there is no way to limit losses. An example they will use is taking part in an office sweepstake, where everyone pays a fee in exchange for drawing a random competitor. If the price is $10 and the team loses, the gambler is said to have lost everything.

However, this logic is often misguided.

In reality, professional gamblers employ a strategy called bankroll management. It involves only betting a certain amount of gambling capital per bet and ensures that even if bets lose, they don’t go broke.

Most bankroll management strategies can ensure that 100-200 bets can be made at their particular level. For example, if someone regularly stakes $10 per bet, they will have at least $1,000 in gambling capital.

If the gambler goes on a downswing and loses the majority of their bets over a certain period of time, then they decrease the amount they bet per event to ensure they can still make between 100-200 bets at that level. So, using the previous example, if someone betting $10 per event goes on a downswing and they lose $500, they would reduce their betting amount to $5 per bet.

So all in all, this is actually a similarity between the two ways to make money: both gambling and investing have ways to mitigate losses.

 

Edges And Value

It was established that both investing and gambling use methods to mitigate risk and maximize the chances of making a profit. However, in the case of gambling, the house always has an edge over the player. 

On the other hand, investments tend to appreciate in value over time.

Now, this does not mean that gambling can not make a lot of money, nor does it mean that investing in assets always guarantees a positive return. 

While the odds always favor the house, it’s important to seek value from bets to maximize returns. 

The term value refers to getting the best odds and making the best play based on the information available. In sports betting, this could be in the form of a heavily underpriced underdog, while in poker, it refers to making a bet with the assumption you have the best hand.

 

Time

 

Time is another difference between gambling and investing. Gambling is constrained by time. While online casinos can keep you gambling all day and night, no matter if it’s a hand of poker or a horse race, it comes to and at some point or another.

When the event finishes, the opportunity to profit further also comes to an end. Either the bets have won or they have lost.

On the other hand, investing in assets can be rewarded by time. When an investor enters a trade, it will go on for as long as that asset is real. For example, if the asset was stock in a company, the trade could, in theory, continue until the company is sold or goes bust.

One way is when investors are paid by companies that they have invested in with dividends. No matter what happens to the value of these shares, the company pays money to the investor in return for the investment. 

While it’s great to make money from the appreciating price of the asset, it’s even better to be rewarded for simply investing in the first place.

 

Gathering Information

Both gamblers and investors can improve the success of their trades by looking at past results and comparing them with current performances. Information is the most valuable tool for both investors and gamblers but there is a difference in terms of how much is available.

Investors can gather information from a variety of sources, such as company reports, financial institutions and, for stocks and shares in particular, even through researching the people running the companies before having to commit a dime to the investment.

The same goes for sports betting. Professionals can find data that affect the results, such as the weather from historical websites and sports news companies. Similar to investors, they can put all this information into a strategy before betting anything.

However, for some casino games, even if you do all the preparation in the world, there is no information about what happened at the table earlier in the day that can help to make a decision during play.

 

Addiction

Now, to most people reading, their minds went straight to gambling addiction. Why? Because it’s assumed that there is no such thing as an investing addiction.

This isn’t strictly true.

Of course, compulsive gambling is a problem that must be addressed. Organizations like Gamblers Anonymous help people overcome their addictions. But there is no such thing as Investing Anonymous, while there are never any news reports detailing the effects of compulsive investing.

Addiction to investing does exist. It’s just seen as a financial problem, rather than an addiction.

People who invest online are prone to checking their investment portfolios on a very regular basis. They will also make multiple trades more often than they probably think. This can get very expensive: not only are they paying a lot in commission to brokers, but they are also investing a lot of energy.

There are also investors that risk capital more aggressively than they should. If the wording was changed to ‘gamblers betting more money than they should’, it clearly points to a problem.

 

Risk-Adverse Vs Risk-Seeking

Gamblers and investors rely on taking risks to make money. Granted, some investments like government bonds held to maturity don’t have much, if any risk attached, but then again, they are prone to the risk of inflation.

The difference lies in the individual’s willingness to find and accept risk. Investors don’t tend to take risks unless there is a large reward, whereas gamblers are forced to take risks with every bet.

There is a notion though that gamblers often take risks that they shouldn’t, while investors do not. Like many of the topics discussed, this is not necessarily true.

Here’s an example.

An opportunity arises where an individual is presented with the following opportunity: they can either take $100,000 right now or risk $1 million on a 50/50 chance.

The obvious, most common response is that taking the 50/50 means the individual is more of a gambler. After all, they are passing up the opportunity of $100,000 without having to risk a thing.

But looking at it objectively, the individual needs has odds of 10/1 to improve. To profitable make this investment, they need to be right 10% of the time. In a 50/50, they are right 50%, so they have 5x more equity needed.

Is this a gamble or a good investment opportunity? One could argue either way.

Of course, gamblers that think this way are different from those that are heading to Las Vegas for the weekend looking for a good time. Those that look to justify their bets before making them act more like an investor.

 

Conclusion

Gambling and investing are more alike than most people think. They both require careful management of capital, using resources to make their trades and plays more accurate, while also having the ability to give an individual financial freedom.

But of course, they are different. Investors are not limited by time and gamblers do not always have the luxury of using past information to help them make informed decisions.

One thing is certain though: whether it’s via investing or gambling, it’s important to understand the purpose of each trade and bet. Otherwise, it really does become a game of chance.

When frequenting online slots, it’s easy to call crooked reels and rigged games when things aren’t going your way. 

You might argue your side and if you’re in a heated discussion with friends, you might even persuade one or two that the games have some form of a fix.

After all, who would actually be able to tell? With everything online, we might all be playing a fool’s game with nobody ever actually winning the big jackpots. 

Lose for long enough and you’ll start questioning the legitimacy of the past winners, online leaderboards and news stories that all inform of life-changing sums despite being sat without a pair of pennies to rub together.

It wouldn’t be a surprise, everything else in the world can be rigged so why not online slots too?

You’re not alone in your thinking and many people often wonder: Are online Slots Rigged? The answer, however, is no.

Providing that slots you’re playing are licensed by a recognized body, there’s no way an online slot can be rigged. 

They may have a house edge, but try and find me a slot, online or elsewhere, that doesn’t. Providing they’re licensed, they’re recognized as a fair game, but to understand the criteria of what makes a fair online slot, we need to delve into the details of how an online slot actually works. 

 

It all started with the mechanical slot

The very first slots, dating back to the late 19th century, were mechanical and although lacking in features, were charming in their simplicity. 

Pull the handle of the one-armed-bandit and you’ll be able to hear the gears turning, spinning the reels and chancing your luck at a jackpot.

With a physical machine, it’s much more difficult to rig, yes there’s the chance that there’s never going to be a winning payline, but it’s unlikely to rank as popular with the players so there’s very few around. 

In a typical mechanical slot, players insert a coin and pull the lever which triggers the spinning of the reels.

This action allowed the reels to operate like tumblers inside a combination lock, activating a payout when the correct combination hits and the tumblers align.

A series of metal pins, known as the payout trigger, would work in tandem with the reel plate and determine the payout value – the better the combination, the longer that the trigger will be released, the more coins a player will win. 

If you’re mechanically minded, you’ll see how it works and why they’re particularly difficult to rig without the use of electronics.

Parts will have to be custom made, fettled with and altered to make sure the reels aren’t making combinations and more often than not, it’s more complicated to make a fixed machine that it would be an honest one.

It’s a simpler time, sure, but there’s not exactly the same level of action that we see in the modern-day slot. 

 

The evolution of electronic and online slots

It didn’t take long for the typical mechanical slot to evolve to the electronic equivalent and before long, the electronic slots developed into the online slot we all know and love. 

The mechanical internals of the slot was swapped for a digital one and instead of gears running the reels from a pull of the lever, motors were used to spin the combinations of symbols, leaving the lever for purely nostalgic reasons.

Compare this to online and you’re now just clicking your mouse or tapping your screen over a button labeled ‘spin’ and trusting it to be fair. 

There may have some serious steps forward, but to understand exactly how the online slots work, it’s important to know the logic behind them to make a valid judgment as to how fair the online slot actually is. 

 

How the online slot works 

Online slots are different to both electronic and mechanical in that they don’t exist at all in the physical space, but instead in the digital world as a series of algorithms. 

The slot may be designed in an attempt to mimic the reels of the past, but don’t be fooled by flashy graphics and exciting features – the games are simply lines of code that you’re playing through the screen. 

So what are the algorithms in place and what do they mean for our winnings? 

Return to player (RTP) rates 

The first number that we’re taking into account is the RTP rate and is featured across all three different forms of slot machines. 

The return to player (RTP) rate is the percentage that a player should expect to win back of the sum that they’ve entered into the machine. Usually, you’ll find the RTP set around the 95% mark to lure players into believing that they’re not actually losing all that much money by keeping their win rates high. 

In mechanical slots, this value is typically unknown due to the nature of the ‘random’ internals, but with electronic and online slots, the number is predetermined and written into the software when the game is created. 

The minimum theoretical payout percentage is defined by law or regulation but varies depending on the jurisdiction.

In the state of Nevada, this percentage stands at 75%, in Mississippi, it’s at 80% and New Jersey sticks at 83%.

Any less than this and the slot machine is breaking the rules and will be subject to legal action if discovered. 

Historically, many casinos, both brick-and-mortar and online, have been unwilling to publish the data surrounding their machines RTP values, making it impossible for players to know the theoretical return on the games they’re playing. However, particularly recently, these figures have been reaching the public domain via the release of information from casinos and the independent studies of gambling authorities. 

 

RTP and variance

The return to player isn’t the only figure that’s of interest to players of the casino, the variance is perhaps of equal importance when picking a slot to play. 

In theory, the higher the RTP rate, the less chance of losing significant sums over a long period of time you should expect.

Of course, this should only be used as a guide and it should be noted that those with lower RTP rates commonly offer increased opportunities for bigger one-off wins. 

This effect is due to the impact of variance, a term describing the type of payout that should be expected from a slot machine.

A slot that boasts a high variance will pay out less frequently but will pay out large sums when a player finally wins.

The opposite is true for slots claiming a low variance with players find payouts more often but in smaller denominations. 

Regardless of variance, RTP should be the main figure of interest and regardless of what type of wins you’re hunting down, the larger RTP values should always be the main focus and make up the bulk of play.

 

Random number generators (RNGs)

If we’re going to discuss how the online slot functions to make sure there’s a fair chance of winning and losing, we’re going to need to talk about random number generators (RNGs). 

An RNG is exactly what it says on the tin, it’s a piece of code written into the game’s architecture that allows for random numbers to be generated, meaning that each player has the same chance to win as the next. 

RNG’s display a set of numbers to the system each time the reels are spun when playing an online slot. These numbers generated are then translated into the results that we see on the screen, leading to different combinations of paylines.

The RNGs will coincide with the RTP of the slot and although the numbers generated will be truly random, they will be developed in such a way that still permits the desired RTG. Clever right?

What’s maybe most important to note is the memory of the system that dishes out the jackpots and although it may feel like a slot is ‘hot’ or ‘cold’ during different times of playing, they’re actually completely oblivious to past events. 

The system itself has no memory, therefore, it cannot dictate when to permit wins and/or losses depending on how much players have previously won/lost. That means it’s equally likely to hit a jackpot immediately following another big win – the odds are the same. 

Ultimately, your fate is in the hands of the algorithm and there’s not a lot you can do to change its mind. 

 

The licensing of fair games

The way a slot works might make sense when it comes to the theory, but when you consider that the developers of the games are in charge of the payouts, a little bit of skepticism might start nagging away once again. 

You’d be absolutely right to question the word of the game developer, after all, who’s going to sell more slots – the one that pays back more or less to the player?

It’s a point that emphasized even further when it comes to the online casino market with plenty of suppliers creating their own games for maximum control and maximum profit – so why would we trust these slots? 

Thankfully, you don’t just have to take the word of the game developers that you’re in safe hands, instead, you can rely on the independent regulatory authorities and their licensing powers to ensure that all games are fair to play and match their stated RTPs. 

But it’s not just the games providers that need the licensing to prove that they’re providing a fair product – all platforms used must have a trustworthy casino license by a recognized body to ensure that they’re up to scratch.

The license takes into account all things safety from the standards of security to the customer service that online casinos provide. 

Authorities are incredibly thorough so it’s not just a case of a quick flick through and a license granted, but a solid look into different forms of criteria to make a judgment on both the games and the casino.

The credentials of the casino will be checked across a range of indicators, the financial clout and business competence evaluated and the policies in place to allow for a reputable organization to form. 

It’s then and only then that the casino will be granted a license, but expect regular check-ups and interest whenever there’s game development from these entities.

How to make sure you’re playing fair 

 

If you’re sat there wondering whether or not you should be concerning yourself with the credentials of the casino – the conclusion is simple – you should always check the casinos licensing and reputation. 

By only playing at licensed casinos you’ll be sure that you’re only gaming where it’s fair and where your personal data is safe and secure.

You don’t want to be playing subpar games with subpar odds with insecure data, so this is an absolute must when checking out new places to play. 

In cases in which companies do not post official data regarding the RTP, it is good practice to investigate third-party testing companies that have the chosen slots within their portfolio.

Third-party sites are often out to help the consumer and they’re usually particularly trustworthy, especially when visiting well-respected sources. 

The best bet is to target games that come alongside published payouts so you can ensure you’re getting the fairest deals.

Rival and BetSoft casinos are great examples of fair places to play and with payouts published online, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting involved with when you’re heading to the slots. 

Ultimately, it’s a case of keeping your wits about you. Providing that you’re playing at a reputable, well-known and reliable site, the chances are that you’ll be in safe hands when spinning the reels.

The grey area comes with newly launched casinos that lack the licenses that we’d expect to be associated with the games. 

If you’ve spotted a dodgy one, it’s best to steer well clear – there’s plenty of other places to play – no matter how good the sign up offer is!

 

The first pit stop in Las Vegas for most visitors is usually a casino. Whether you are an experienced player on the casino floor or just starting, slot machines are the most profitable and entertaining games available.

Slot machines have proven to be popular among players time and time again. Casinos and other entertainment facilities are profiting tremendously from the revenues collected from slots.

The Nevada Gaming Control Board reports that the Las Vegas Strip contained over 160,000 slot machines in 40 different locations in 2022, generating revenues reaching almost $270 million per month.

While these numbers are beneficial to the establishments and their operators, slot machines are also known to be the most profitable game in a casino for the user.

 

 

Slot machines, on average, have an RTP, or return to player, between 75% and 98%; in other words, for every dollar a player spends, the slot machine will yield about 75 to 98 cents right into their pocket.

Even with the high RTP and revenue, Las Vegas and other cities famous for their casinos fill their halls with slot machines because anyone can press a button. 

Commitment is never a priority; the player can put down a small individual bet. A poker face is never required, nor is a real skill, to win big. 

However, research is still encouraged to profit off of slot machines at the highest level, such as reading on user experience on specific games and reading the RTP at each Las Vegas casino.

Return to player is perhaps the most critical factor in picking the best slot to play in Vegas. The higher the RTP percentage, the more likely the slot will payout.

An amateur way to discover a slot’s RTP percentage is to test it with a bet. If a slot claims to have a 94% payout, then after a $100 bet, the payback would equate to about $94. While this may seem straightforward, this method does not fit every player.

Checking message boards and online threads, as well as comparison sites containing slots reviews, are a great way to find the best slots in Vegas. Notable websites encourage players to share their experiences with slot machines; most of their reviews focus on the amount of cash they get to keep after playing.

Another tip to finding one of the better slots offered in Las Vegas is to look for promotions. By signing up to the casino’s player’s club, customers can access unique games, receive free slot plays, and gain eligibility to have freebies on their next visit.

Benefits are significant, especially when the rounds on the slot machines are free, increasing the already high payout.

 

 

The most profitable slots are coined as “loose slots” because they pay out the most amount of money to the player and are thus very desirable among customers.

A feature of profitable slot machines called “progressive jackpots” has become a popular way to transform a couple of hundred bucks into millions.

Progressive jackpots offer prize money compared to the national lottery games, which can easily make a millionaire in a single evening.

According to the Nevada Gaming Control Board, the dollar slots pay back an average of 95% of receipts, 25 cent slots payout 93% on average, and 5 cent slots give back 90% to the players.

The payout from slots at the downtown or other off-Strip locations is one or two percent higher than those on the Strip. Hotel-casinos frequented by locals, such as Sam’s Town, pay better than the tourist hotels in the city. Nevada residents well know that fact when they consider which facilities contain the best slots in Vegas.

Moreover, the newer and more luxurious hotels are known for having the overall poorest RTP percentages.

Some of those hotels include the Bellagio, Venetian, Mandalay Bay, and the new Wynn Las Vegas. Since the amenities of these hotels are off the charts, slot machines do not have to be the most profitable asset (at least to the player).

However, some of these lavish hotels offer great prizes and entertainment that make a higher payout from the slot machine. The Bellagio, for example, provides a slot tournament with 2,300 games as options. From jackpots and progressive features, the Bellagio slot machines can grow small bets into millions.

 

 

Generally, the best slots in Vegas are located in the older properties of the North Strip. 

Slot machines may look flashy and modern, especially themed slots, but that does not mean they have the highest payout. The more traditional and old-looking games may be a better money’s worth.

Much like the endorphin rush of a “win,” a good-looking slot machine can trick the brain chemistry into wagering more money than intended. With that in mind, a simple-looking slot should be considered to help players gamble responsibly and win big.

Rather than always playing Star Wars or Avengers slot machines, players should have an eye out for the more dated and less appealing slot machines available on the casino floor. Many of them have substantial RTP rates and have stood the test of time.

One of these seemingly unappreciated slots is housed in Slots-a-Fun at Circus Circus Casino in Las Vegas. The selection includes classics, such as “Double Diamond” and “Red, White, and Blue.” Although they are not the flashiest, they are the best slots in Vegas.

Slots-a-Fun is a classic and exclusive casino that incorporates slot machines paired with an arcade, pool tables, bowling, and other forms of entertainment. Their slots have been proven time and time again as the machines to make the next big Vegas winner.

As mentioned before, these slots are not located conveniently for the tourists on the Strip. A general rule of thumb to follow: the more touristy the casino, the lower the payback on the slot machines.

 

 

While the Las Vegas Strip has a win percentage of about 8%, the slots in Reno and Boulder have a more generous casino wins of around 5%. 

Some of the casinos located in Reno, Boulder, and North Vegas include Eastside Cannery, Sunset Station, M Resort, Jerry’s Nugget, Texas Station, and Boulder Station.

Geographical location should not be the only consideration when looking for great slots. Some veteran gamblers and websites claim that corners within a specific casino itself have some of the better slot machines.

High traffic areas, such as near elevators, a front desk, aisles, showrooms, registration areas, etc., contain the loosest slots in the casino.

Some people do not even have to go to a casino to access a slot machine. An entertainment facility is perhaps the unrivaled source to use for the best slots in Vegas. 

Airports, convenience stores, and grocery stores are the first locations to avoid playing slot machines. Even though the majority are in clean and well-run establishments, they do not offer significant returns with their slot machines.

What these three different places have in common is that under Nevada law the slot machines in airports, convenience stores, and grocery stores are entirely controlled by large corporations. 

With that in mind, it should not be surprising that the slot machines in these facilities provide a much lower payout percentage than the typical slot found in a Las Vegas casino. 

Even though convenience store owners can obtain a lease or purchase of slot machines, the Nevada law changed in favor of larger corporations having control over the slots and their payouts.

Nevada grocery stores are the only place that can legally provide slot machines because they have leased the space through a larger company. Although they can offer marginally better odds than the former two, grocery stores should still be avoided when it comes to slot machines.

The loosest slot machines in the past 12 months have been Megabucks and penny slots. Megabucks had the tightest slots at over 11% casino win percentage. Penny slots are the most popular denomination, even though their win percentage is not the most generous.

Megabucks offers some of the best slots in Vegas with the highest winnings. In 2014, a man playing a Megabucks slot machine in Rampart Casino hit a $14 million jackpot after playing for five minutes on a $20 bill when the slot paid off. 

This payout is not the only one from a Megabucks machine. Megabucks has produced life-changing jackpots for multiple players for over two decades. 

Their slogan markets the casino’s accomplishments perfectly: “Dream big. Win big”.  Even with players only spending a $1 for a spin, there is always a chance of the jackpot prize of $10 million. 

In addition to Megabucks and Slots-a-Fun, there are plenty of casinos offering some of the best slots available in Las Vegas.

 

 

Many websites report O’Shea’s, Stardust, and older casinos located on the north side of the Strip as the places to visit for great and profitable slot machine winnings.

The casino nearest to offering the loosest slots in Las Vegas is Palms resort, which has an average game payout percentage of about 94%.

Lower payout slot machines also have distinct locations on the casino floor. Some of those include the leading slot machine on the floor, those near the table games, and close to the poker room. Since all of these areas have too much action, either from different games or other slots, the RTP does not have to be too high.

Furthermore, it is better to be aware of which specific slot machines should be avoided. The reason behind it is the exact opposite of why the already mentioned slots are the best: the worst slots have a low percentage of payback.

Several slots have unfortunately been added to the universal list of worst slots found in Las Vegas, such as Wish Upon a Jackpot by Blueprint Gaming, Adventures in Wonderland by Ash Gaming, and King Kong by Cryptologic due to their low RTP.

Different software companies specializing in slot machines have reputations that reflect the RTP’s. While some developments have been mentioned before for their low percentage payback, others are renowned for their slots having high RTP rates.

Playtech is one of the more famous software companies that develop successful and popular slot machines located in Las Vegas casinos. Games created by this company include Goblin’s Cave, Ugga Bugga, and Ocean Princess.  All offer reputable and above-average percentage payouts.

Other software companies known for distributing slots with high paybacks are Barcrest, WMS, and NetEnt. 

In addition to Palms Casino and Resort, there are other casinos in Las Vegas that have multiple slots maintaining an above-average payout.

 

 

Fitzgerald’s Casino and Hotel has established a favorable reputation for offering the loosest slots in downtown Las Vegas. Ranked regularly, the machines in Fitzgerald’s that are given the best paybacks include reel, penny, and progressive slots.

Slot machines are incredibly entertaining, easy, and a great reason to visit a Las Vegas casino.

Although research is essential, an in-depth research is not necessary unless you are wagering a significant amount of money. Specific slot machines should be sought out to cash in millions, which has been proven to be possible within five minutes of playing.

The different themes, bonuses, promotions, and prizes, prevent slot machines from ever becoming boring.  For some lucky few, a slot will transform a single $5 bill to $5 million or more than that colossal amount.

With the press of a button, a slot machine can make an average player into a millionaire, or give the customer an affordable and responsible amount of fun on the Las Vegas casino floor.

With some of these tips that differentiate the better slots in Las Vegas, slot machines can become more of a calculated game than intended. 

Overall, Vegas is the numero uno destination to play slots in the United States. The key is to be wise and risk only as much as you can afford to lose. 

It is essential to ask around and try some old slots that have a proven track record of wins. Don’t just be impressed with the design and wager money in the excitement! 

If you are planning on traveling to Singapore and experience the gambling nightlife, you have come to the right place. 

The Singaporean government is not terribly fond of gambling, even though the country is home to two of the best casino resorts in all of Asia.

While tourists can gamble without a problem, locals find it much more difficult, especially since they must pay S$100 every time they visit a casino.

But there is a reason for it. The council uses it as a way to tackle problem gambling, meaning that instead of a way to disrupt the industry, it’s actually meant to help it out.

No matter if you are just visiting this beautiful country or you have been a resident for years, this article will show you how you can gamble in Singapore, as well as the best places to go and the important statistics that highlight its growth.

Here is all you need to know about gambling in Singapore.

 

Top Casinos In Singapore

The best casinos in Singapore attract people from all over the world. They are some of the most luxurious resorts across the globe and offer all the games you would expect from Las Vegas.

There may only be a few of them to try but you are guaranteed an experience unlike anything else. 

The atmosphere is full of glamour and prestige and you can feel it as soon as you walk through the doors. The first casino in Singapore only opened less than 20 years ago, meaning that the gambling industry is still young compared to Vegas and other Asian markets like Macau.

But Singapore has something that these two places don’t: the title of being one of the top banking capitals in the world. With high rollers coming through the gates every day, you can be sure that the highest stakes are being played every single night.

There are more and more casino cruises in Singapore cropping up too. They will sail out to international waters to avoid breaking any laws that could prevent people from gambling on land. 

When you turn up to a casino in Singapore, it’s best to turn up in smart casual. Avoid shorts and flip-flops at all costs or you can be certain you will not be allowed to enter – and this includes cruise casinos!

 

Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands is one of the best places to gamble in Singapore. It has close to 500 tables to play for your favorite games, more than 1,500 slot machines (jackpot machines to the locals) and, for those of you that want the VIP experience, over 30 private gaming rooms. In their own words, Marina Bay Sands has “a vast selection of the newest and most popular electronic gaming machines worldwide”.

With 15,000 square meters of casino space to enjoy, there are so many things to do. Minimum bets start at S$25 and vary depending on the table you play. 

 

Resorts World Santosa

Resorts World Sentosa Casino (RWS) is 49 hectares worth of pure luxury and excitement. Located on the resort island of Sentosa, RWS has attracted more than 45 million visitors within its first three years and continues to welcome guests from all over the world

The casino itself covers 15,000 square meters of land and has the biggest casino games in Singapore. If you are a fan of poker, this is the destination for you.

The poker room is separate from the rest of the casino and, unlike the main casino floor, drinks are free of charge. The games start with blinds as low as SG$10/SG$20 with the rake capped at 5%.

If you fancy a break from the casino, you won’t be disappointed. The resort complex is also home to two other stunning attractions: Universal Studios theme park, the Maritime Experiential Museum and Marine Life Park, containing one of the largest aquariums in the world and the Adventure Cove Waterpark.

To enhance your stay, make good use of an award-winning destination spa, take a tour around the Resorts World Convention Centre, dine at a number of celebrity chef restaurants, and shop at some outstanding retail outlets.

 

Aegean Paradise Cruise

While aboard the Aegean Paradise Cruise, you can gamble all day and night without having to worry about breaking your lucky streak. If you get hungry, take as many trips to the Chinese buffet as you need or take a stroll across the deck and bathe in the sea breeze.

In terms of the casino itself, there are 40 live tables to play that include blackjack and poker, with hundreds of slot machines too.

Compared to mainland casinos, the minimum bets are far lower at around S$2 a bet, so low stakes players can take full advantage and have a good time.

There is an entry fee to access the Aegean Paradise Cruise casino, with prices starting at S$25. If you plan on staying the night, private cabins start from S$40 on weekdays and start from S$80 on weekends.

Head to the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. From here, you will be required to take a trip to Nongsapura Ferry Terminal before boarding the cruise and starting your at-sea casino adventure.

 

Online Gambling In Singapore

If you are a resident of Singapore, online gambling can be a great option for you. This is because if you know where to look, you can play games and avoid having to pay the daily fee.

There are so many options, ranging from poker and roulette to slot machine, bingo, blackjack and so much more.

Plus, once you sign up, you can be eligible to claim welcome bonuses to let you play with more money than you deposit.

There are so many possibilities but the main thing is that you don’t have to succumb to the normal Singapore levies.

Generally speaking, in order to gamble online in Singapore, you must be aged 21 and over, but there are many offshore online casinos that accept players aged 18 and over too.

You are often required to confirm your age with documentation so have them to hand as you sign up.

When you’re ready to start playing, you are most welcome to use Singapore dollars on most sites. Be aware though that since it’s not a major world currency, the majority of sites you can use will either have US dollars, UK sterling or Euros as their main denomination.

The best sites have great exchange rates so you get the most for your money when you either deposit or withdraw into your account.

Another advantage of playing online is that Singapore doesn’t have a hosting centre for any of these major sites.

All of the online casinos you can use are based abroad and fall out of the government’s restrictions, meaning that there’s no need to rely on the gambling commission for where the site is based. 

Of course, it goes without saying that even though there are a lot of opportunities to gamble online, it’s important to stay with a reputable site.

Ensure that you pick somewhere that clearly displays their licensing credentials and who they are operated by.

 

Best Online Sites

The best online gambling website for Singaporeans depends on the game you want to play. For example, the best place to play blackjack could have big bonuses for making certain hands but their Taxes Hold’em offering could have high rake.

Have a browse to see the best places for your game of choice. With the amount of money in the gambling industry, it won’t be tough to find.

The most popular games for online gambling in Singapore are roulette, sic bo, baccarat, poker, craps, slots and blackjack.

This means there are literally thousands of games you can play, the majority of which can’t be found in live casinos.

The Legal Bit

Now, even though online gambling in Singapore is possible, you must pay attention to this. If you don’t you can get yourself in trouble.

The Remote Gambling Act has effectively banned online gambling in Singapore, meaning that you won’t be able to find any local sites to play on.

This law doesn’t just affect Singaporean betting companies in the country either as the government has blocked several of the world’s biggest gambling sites. 

Here’s an explanation of the laws courtesy of Singapore Legal Advice:

Gambling can generally be classified into 3 categories:

 

• Gaming, which generally refers to games of chance and skill. An example would be “Dai Di”, the card game also known as Big Two.

• Lotteries such as 4D or the Singapore Sweep

• Betting, which can include wagering on football matches or horse races.

 

Gaming is common in Singapore as a recreational activity. It would appear that gaming during funerals, a common sight in Singapore, is considered gaming in private. However, the operation of gambling dens is illegal. It is also illegal to game in public.

These acts are prohibited by the Common Gaming Houses Act. Therefore, gambling den operators and participants in public gaming can be liable for such offenses. Obviously, legalized casinos in Singapore are exempt from these laws.

Furthermore, underground betting is also an offense prohibited by the Betting Act. Only legalized organizations such as Singapore Pools can conduct public betting in Singapore.

Finally, jackpot machines are also banned in Singapore, in accordance with the Private Lotteries Act, except when permission is granted or as in the case of legalized casinos.

You can find even more legal information here. 

 

So, how do you gamble online in Singapore?

The answer is by using proxy servers and VPNs that change your location. 

When European players play online, most of their games don’t actually take place in their own country.

Unless the site has a server in that country, they are technically playing abroad. The server location is the place where the online casino is regulated and licensed too.

This creates a certain grey area for Singapore players. After all, if they use a proxy server or VPN and play on a European server, technically speaking they are playing a European game.

Now if you aren’t comfortable in this grey area, you don’t have to play for real. These sites will have games you can play for free or with ‘play money’, meaning you can still have a good time gambling online.

Once you get online, there are many online sites you can use, of which you can expect great security so that keep your personal details private and secure, a variety of your favorite casino games to keep you playing all night and plenty of rewards including real cash welcome bonuses.

 

Mobile Gambling In Singapore

Even though Singapore is small, there are so many things you can be doing. If you don’t fancy being limited to one place at a time, why not take your gambling on the move with you?

Plenty of Singapore’s online casinos function just as well on mobile devices as they do on a desktop computer. Whether it’s on your smartphone or on your tablet, there’s no need to stay at home and play anymore.

The mobile gambling experience for Singapore players is available on all major platforms, including iOS, Android and Windows. All you need is some battery power, an internet connection and you’re away. 

Of course, with mobile gambling, you’re not just limited to Singapore either. Take the games on your travels across Asia and beyond.

 

The Facts And Figures

In 2018, it was reported that more residents of Singapore were gambling. The biggest increase was people aged between 18 and 29 years old, where the number of people gambling rose from 28% in 2014 to 41% in 2017.

These numbers were taken from a study by the National Council of Problem Gaming (NCPG), which occurs every three years. In fact, of the 3,000 Singapore residents that took part in the study, a lot of people from all age groups are gambling more than in previous years.

Furthermore, the study found that 52% of the participants had taken part in at least one form of gambling, compared to 44% in 2014. 

The average monthly spending on gambling also increased $20 to $30 in the same timespan.

In terms of the most popular game, the 4D lottery remains on top. 

However, while more people are gambling in Singapore, more people are also keeping themselves well away. The people that are self-excluding themselves the most were aged between 41 and 50 years old.

 

Gambling Addiction In Singapore

Now, while gambling can be a lot of fun, it can also cause a lot of problems if not managed properly.

However, in Singapore, even with the two massive casinos opening, the number of people becoming addicted to gambling in Singapore has decreased.

As per the report by the NCPG mentioned at the beginning of this article, the number of permanent residents of Singapore that had a problem with gambling was only 0.9% in 2017.

To put this into perspective, there were just over Singaporeans and permanent residents in 2017 who were over 20 years old. Therefore, 0.9% of this equates to around 28,000 people with an addiction problem.

In fact, the total number of people with a gambling addiction has been falling ever since 2005 ie before the two casinos were even open.

Only 1% of the people polled played jackpots or table games in Singapore.

One of the reasons behind this is due to the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) implementing social safeguards to prevent addictions from forming; one of which being the daily S$100 levy.

So while the casinos remain an attraction for many international travelers, it seems the novelty has worn off the locals with fewer residents going than in previous years.

But even with all this considered, it’s still important to address the issue. Gambling addicts in Singapore often suffer from financial stress and cause concern for their families.

The council is doing a lot of work to raise awareness of problem gambling and offering help to anyone affected by it.

It is also increasing the number of help centers available and has even created an e-counseling service. The aim is to help people that feel uncomfortable talking about their problems by allowing them to be anonymous and talk over the phone or the internet.

 

Conclusion

Gambling in Singapore is on the rise. More and more people are coming to the city and taking advantage of the unique experience.

There are great games to play every day, no matter if you are playing at home or you take a trip into international waters.

If you have never been, there has never been a better time to gamble in Singapore. Even during the times where you don’t fancy it, the surrounding areas are packed with great activities to keep you entertained.

But even though the number of people gambling in Singapore is increasing, the number of people with a problem is heading in the opposite direction.

It’s vital that this trend continues so both residents and travelers keep coming back for more.

 

The uninterrupted rise of the online casino has been one of the most impressive digital take-overs when comparing with any industry in the online world.

Look around the web and you’ll find countless casinos, games, bonuses and loyalty rewards all available to access via your smartphone – all you really need is an internet connection and you’re away.

But that doesn’t mean you should dive in headfirst without learning just a little beforehand. After all, you wouldn’t sit down at a blackjack table without knowing a little about the game first, would you?

There are bags of information out there helping you learn and make decisions about all things online-gambling, from the best online casino games to the sites you should avoid.

But one thing’s for certain, land-based just can’t keep up with the online alternatives, no matter how hard they may try.

The benefits of playing in the comfort of your own home come in thick and fast from the lack of dress-code to the sheer choice of games to indulge in – there’s no way they can compete.

But not everything in the online gambling world is always as it seems, not all casinos are safe and if you’re not careful, they can take advantage of you and your private details.

But fear not, we’ve got 5 of the most important things you need to know before giving online gambling a go – making sure you have the upper hand when going against the casinos.

 

1. The games will always favor the casino

 

No matter how much information we acquire, how many strategies and tips we try and how many dice we throw, the harsh truth is that the games will always favor the casino.

Take a look at the odds of any game and you’ll see that the casino always comes out on top, but don’t get me wrong, there’s always still a chance to win big.

If you’re switched on between the ears, this won’t exactly be groundbreaking news, but that’s never stopped anyone from having a bit of a flutter here and there.

You can be the smartest mathematician in the world by day and still love to play slots in the evening – not because it’s a sure thing that you’re going to win – but the complete opposite.

You know you’re playing against the odds, so if you do hit that big win it makes it so much better.

The games will always favor the casino – but that doesn’t mean that the jackpots aren’t waiting to be claimed – and it’s always good to beat the boss.

 

2. Bonuses aren’t always as they seem

One of the bigger issues with online gambling and the casinos that promote it is the sign-up bonuses that you’ll receive.

On paper, these sound great, right? You’ll be able to pick between deposit bonuses, free spins, bingo tickets and so many more from different casinos around the web – but dig a little deeper and you’ll find that not all bonuses are exactly as they seem.

By looking at the small print, also known as the wagering requirements, you can find out what these bonuses really mean.

With some deposit bonuses requiring the ‘free money’ to be bet multiple times before withdrawing winnings, it’s not rare to lose out the full bonus before you get the chance to play.

It’s sneaky, sure, but it’s something to take care of when shopping around for casinos.

Not a fan of reading the small print? Look for the bonuses with no wagering requirements – this way you’ll know exactly where you stand on sign-up.

 

3. Games can sometimes be deceiving

It’s not just the bonuses that you should be wary of, but the games too when you’re playing at any online casino.

It’s always a good idea to check the rules and regulations before playing for real money – that way you’re not left with any nasty surprises when you miss the chance to win big.

I don’t know about you, but I wouldn’t be able to sleep at night if I knew I narrowly avoided the jackpot through my own ignorance.

Similarly, it’s a good idea to check the general rules of the games you’re wanting to try out before you’re playing them.

You wouldn’t wander into a brick-and-mortar casino with no idea how to play blackjack and the same should be said for online casinos.

Just because it’s available to play – doesn’t mean you should go in blind – it’s always best to check before you gamble.

 

4. You won’t be winning every time

This might sound like common sense, but you’d be surprised at just how many casinos and affiliates hide the fact, but you won’t be winning each and every time.

As previously mentioned, the games are always designed in the casinos favor so as much as there’s the chance to win – you won’t be winning every time.

Of course, the amounts that you’ll be winning can differ massively each time, but it’s imperative to know that some failures are imperative.

Always remember that there will be plenty of losses with the wins, but I suppose you can’t have a rainbow without a little rain, right?

 

5. Not all casinos are safe

Last but by no means least on our list is to remember that not all online casinos are exactly safe when it comes to keeping you and your data away from harm.

To avoid being conned from fraudulent sites, it’s best practice to look for those sites with a good strong reputation to fall back on.

Keep an eye out for reviews, conduct your own research and view testimonials on independent sites for a true view of how the casino operates and behaves with long periods of play.

There’s an ample number of casinos you can trust and the majority of the somewhat dodgy ones get shut down in impressively short time periods – but it doesn’t mean they aren’t out there.

Keep your wits about you and check the reputation before going all-in and depositing at any online casino.

 

You’re not a true gambling-fan unless you’ve got a place reserved on your bucket list for wagering tourist attractions, quirky games to play and the concrete giants we affectionately call casinos. 

But, if you’ve been to the one you’ve been to them all, right? You couldn’t be more wrong. 

Each casino has something special about them, from the stunning architecture you’ll find in Macao to the fountains outside of the Bellagio – there’s plenty to see and do in and around the global icons. 

Struggling to narrow your personalized list down to just 10 of the very best?

Don’t you worry, we’ve got 10 casinos that you have to visit (at least once) in your lifetime. 

 

10. MGM Grand, Las Vegas

First up on the list comes one of the most iconic casinos to grace the Las Vegas skyline – the MGM Grand. 

The casino boasts the title of largest in Clark County, occupying a huge 171,500 sq ft, but it’s not just the size that catches our attention with the gambling giant. The resort comes with countless attractions including CSI: The Experience, TopGolf and of course, the MGM Grand Garden Area. 

Worth a stop off if you’re in town.

 

9. Hard Rock Casino, Atlantic City

Hard Rock has to be one of the most iconic brands in American history and if you’re serious about gambling – you have to visit the guitar-wielding masterpiece. 

The casino’s recently undergone a huge renovation, finishing June 2018, giving a fresh feel to the classic style of the resort. With the gaming floor at 167,000 sq ft, you’ll be wandering around for hours taking in all the sites, smells and sounds that Hard Rock is famous for.

 

8. The Mirage, Las Vegas

Planted firmly on the Las Vegas strip, The Mirage is one of the most famous casinos in the world, and it’s no surprise, not with Steve Wynn and MGM Resorts International surrounding the casino’s history.

The Mirage features the permanent Beatles-themed show ‘Love’ for those that like a bit of a musical break from their gaming, not that’ll you want to with 100,000 sq ft of gaming space. It’d be rude not to visit on the tour!

 

7. Casino Estoril, Lisbon

Stepping outside of the States for a second and heading over to Lisbon, Portugal we see the hidden gem that is Casino Estoril – a prime candidate for a casino to visit before you die.

The venue is stunning and founded in 1916, it’s one of the oldest casinos in our list and it sure sticks to its old fashioned ways. You’ll only find the doors open for 12 hours stints at a time and with over 200 slots, a huge poker room and plenty of games penciled into the calendar, you’ll be using every second!

 

6. Caesars Palace, Las Vegas

Caesars Palace needs no introduction when we’re talking about the biggest and best casinos in the world, just about everyone’s heard of the venue, even if they do struggle with the spelling.

Wander through the doors and you’ll be welcomed into a huge 124,181 sq ft of gaming floor space. But it’s what’s inside the giant space that’s maybe the most impressive with a 4,500 sq ft, 24-hour poker room. An absolute must-visit if you’re a lover of long poker stents and the Las Vegas air.

 

5. Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Heading over to Singapore next we find Marina Bay Sands, the first of the casinos on our list to hit the top 10 most profitable in the world.

The venue opened in 2010 and with a cost of $8 billion, reigns as the single most expensive standalone casino in the world. There are over 700 table games and a whopping 2,500 slot machines to dabble in. Trust me, it’s worth the trip!

 

4. SJM Grand Lisboa, Macao

Moving into the Chinese region of Macao now and you’ll find it difficult to beat the SJM Grand Lisboa if you’re in town.

It’s the building itself that forms perhaps the most interesting feature is that the casino permits with a giant alien-like structure dominating the skyline. There are over 800 gaming tables and over 1000 slots, but the atmosphere is where it earns its keep.

Seriously, take a look at a picture and tell me it’s not the maddest looking building you’ve ever seen!

 

3. Galaxy, Macao

There’s only one casino in Macao (and the world for that matter) that’ll beat the SJM Grand Lisboa when it comes to revenue and that’s the Galaxy.

Raking in an astonishing $5.85 billion (2014), it stands as the single most profitable casino in the world. Not bad considering it’s only been open since 2011… With 6 hotels all rocking individual themes, it makes sense to visit at least six times in the near future – don’t you think?

 

2. The Bellagio, Las Vegas

Maybe the most majestic on the strip, but a personal favorite of mine, the Las Vegas-based Bellagio has to be right up there on the list with the very best to visit. 

Watch the world-famous fountains from the window of some 3,000 rooms that the hotel has to offer before heading down to the world-famous poker room. Home to many of the professional players, ‘The Office’ as it’s commonly referred to is notorious for its high table limits and huge pots. 

Stick their long enough and you might even bump into Daniel Negreanu.

 

1. Casino de Monte-Carlo, Monaco

Coming in at number one on our list, somewhat unsurprisingly, is the Casino de Monte-Carlo, a glamorous gambling paradise located in the superrich tax haven that is Monaco.

Dating back to 1863, the casino is by far the oldest on the list and perhaps the most interesting. Although made famous from numerous Hollywood productions including Never Say Never Again, Goldeneye and Casino Royale, residents of Monaco are forbidden to a game in their own casino. 

It may be one of the most glamorous places in the world – but if you’re not allowed the odd flutter – is it really worth it?

The next big thing in gambling is expected to be the Internet of Things (IoT), which has the potential to revolutionize the gaming industry, particularly slots.

One of the key drivers for the popularity of slots is their entertainment value; integration with IoT could set the stage for a massive boom for virtual and online slot machines.

 

What is IoT?

Briefly, IoT can be explained as a development where electronic devices such as sensors, monitors and cameras are connected to each other through local and global networks.

This especially applies to devices that are not traditionally connected to local or internet networks.

For example, a connected refrigerator can order milk, if it senses that you are about to run out and it does all this without human input.

The Ignite Outsourcing website further explains that IoT is designed to be an interface for machine-to-machine communications, allowing small embedded electronics to send data to other devices without requiring input from a user.

It is projected that by 2020 there will be more than 20 billion devices connected.

This is a tantalizing prospect for the gambling industry, because software developers will then make more advanced games with high-class features.

 

Personalization of the gaming experience

In addition, IoT developers have been able to gather analytic data to help shape and improve the gaming experience to make it more attractive to players.

New high-class features will no doubt improve the user experience and entertainment value and this will certainly improve the entertainment appeal for slots.

The Power Up Gaming website says one of the more easily predictable outcomes of the intersection of the IoT and slots is the personalization of the slots experience.

Every device a player uses to access mobile slots – from smartphones to tablets and laptops – is packed with sensors capable of tracking how the player interacts with the game being played.

Personalization of the gaming experience could be one of the biggest drawcards, because analytics can tell what version of a game a player enjoys, right from the theme to the style of graphics and the type of bet they can place.

“By tracking and analyzing the right data sets, online gaming platforms can learn over time how customers interact with and respond to online games.

Much like how casinos can an analyze player reactions through facial expressions, speech, and nonverbal cues, mobile devices provide a variety of ways to measure player satisfaction during the course of a game,” it was reported.

 

Analytics to help expand reach

The depth of analytics and data that developers have is expected to increase the reach and reception of mobile slots.

This will in turn enable casinos to increase their popularity to an even greater extent.

“In recent years, online casinos have experienced a significant shift from desktop games to mobile games.

IoT advanced devices will help players play their favorite games without a hitch and deliver another dimension to the online gambling sphere,” it was reported.

What IoT offers, is the intersection of the physical gambling experience with the mobile experience.

Currently, casinos can only generate money from slot machines when a player is physically present, but IoT offers a chance to overcome this barrier.

Thus, casinos can collect data without needing to have a player physically present. This is a big win for the gaming industry.

 

Engaging and reaching out to players

“The magic of mobile gaming is that it provides an environment for players that’s comfortable, convenient, and always connected.

Game operators can keep players engaged through periodic notifications, loyalty rewards that can be redeemed immediately, and by receiving consistent feedback from players and devices.

Expanding the realm of online gaming to wearable devices and other Internet-ready devices gives game operators even more opportunities to keep players engaged,” the Ignite Outsourcing website further explained.

The potential for IoT in slot machines is truly limitless. Smart watches have made it possible for users to have micro casinos on their wrists, while augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) literally bring the casino into a gambler’s home by providing a real life-like experience.

 

What about privacy?

As with all conversations about data collection and analytics, there is the matter of privacy.

Questions will linger about how online casinos will balance data collection with a user’s privacy.

Touting recent reports, the Power Up Gaming website argues that “consumers of all types are willing to forgo a certain amount of privacy in return for a better experience.”

The website says research by Vanson Bourne found that 71 percent of 22 to 35 year olds may be willing to share personal data in return for better TV content.

Other research by Accenture and the Retail Industry Leaders Association reported that 63 percent of consumers were willing to share their data in return for benefits such as exclusive deals and offers targeted at their personal interests.

“The same logic will apply to the development and marketing of online slots, with the technology of the IoT used to gather the data needed to shape an ever more personal offer,” the website said.

 

Online gambling set for massive boom

Online gambling is set for a massive boom, with a study by Juniper Research suggesting that a combination of increased uptake in digital products, coupled with new, positive regulation, will push the total amount placed in wagers to reach a total of $1 trillion globally in 2022.

In 2018, it was expected that online wagers would amount to $700 billion, up from about $620 billion in 2017.

“We believe new channels, such as chatbots, have the potential to drive customer engagement, through delivery of personalised offers, alongside 24/7 player support,” research author, Lauren Foye, said.

It is further forecast that by 2022, the total revenue of the gambling industry will reach $635 billion, while by next year online slots will occupy a larger section in the gambling market with revenues at 45 percent of the total income.

IoT could be the foundation for the growth of slots and the whole casino industry.

Megaways Slots are online games that employ the Megaways random reel modifier feature, which alters the number of symbols on the reels on each given play, providing considerably more ways to win than traditional online slots. Megaways slots were named after the Megaways™ mechanic established by Big Time Gaming. 

Megaways are a popular gameplay mechanic for slot games and have exploded in popularity. Popular casino Stake.com, for example, offers over 140 Megaways slots, which you can view here, showcasing many ways players can play this slot game format. Compared to traditional online slot games, Megaways slots allow the players to have higher paylines. To understand how Megaways slots revolutionized the online slot gaming market, we will trace the origins of slot machines.

Origin of slot machines

Sittman and Pitt of Brooklyn, New York, invented the first fruit machine in 1891. They created the first gambling machine, which served as the forefather of the modern slot machine and grandfather to the fruit machine. The original game was based on poker and consisted of five drums containing 50 playing cards. 

Charles August Fey invented the first slot machine in San Francisco in 1898. They had a rudimentary three-reel design and a few symbols. The Liberty Bell was one of the earliest logos utilized and is still popular among traditional slot fans. These machines offered a single pay line and were popular in United States bars. 

The great success of the Liberty Bell slot machine inspired other innovators. Herbert Mills, a Chicago manufacturer, created the Operator Bell in 1907. In reaction to the prohibition of cash-based slot machines, Mills’ system would dispense fruit-flavored gum and candies. Instead of playing card symbols, the dial featured fruits such as cherries and lemons.

It was also the first time the famous bar symbol appeared on a machine based on the company emblem. As a result, the phrase “fruit machine” was coined. The fruit symbols have been used throughout history when designing modern slot machines. Following the end of World War I, the US government was enticed by tax breaks to reintroduce money-based gambling, and coin slots reappeared. 

In 1964, Bally created the first electromechanical machine called “Money Honey.” This version had between three to five reels. It had a maximum payoff of 500 coins. Instead of mechanical reels, slot machines featured a graphic motif on the screen for the first time. With the development of software, game makers could add additional symbols, paylines, and reels to slot machines while maintaining more control over the rewards.

Fortune Coin, a Las Vegas-based firm, created the first genuine video slot machine in Kearney Mesa, California, in 1976. For the display, this slot machine used a modified 19″ Sony Trinitron color receiver and logic boards for all slot machine operations. Video slot machines became popular throughout the ’80s in bars, casinos, and virtually through the computer. 

The International Game Technology (IGT) company released the first progressive jackpot slot machine, ‘Megabucks,’ in 1986. These devices generated a pot by taking a small portion of each stake. When it was not won, the progressive jackpot grew to astronomical proportions. Slot machines in each casino were linked together, creating one grand jackpot. This feature became a staple feature in the future slot machines. 

The dawn of online casino games

Online casino games revolutionized the gambling world when they were first introduced in the early 1990s. Martin Moshal is credited for being the father of online casino games. With the partnership of Roger Raatgever, a banker at Discover Bank Limited, Moshal launched Microgaming in 1994. The Gaming Club became the first online casino game in the same year. It launched in South Africa under “casino.co.za.” 

WMS Industries created “Reel ‘Em In,” the first second-screen video slot game in 1996. This game introduced a second screen for the bonus round. The initial prizes were still low, but the idea of online slot games having a bonus round would become a game changer in 1998 in the form of “Cash Splash.” 

Cash splash is considered the first online slot machine that changed the dynamics of slot games. It was introduced to the world by Microgaming in 1998. The game developers showed the potential of winning big in a slot machine game. A massive prize pool would quickly accrue by tying a game’s jackpot across all online casinos that run the same game. The bonus round guaranteed a higher jackpot. 

Mobile slot machines

The late 1990s kicked the development of online slot machine games into high gear. The Internet became more widespread and accessible as computers and game consoles got slicker. In 1999, the first mobile phone with the Wireless Application Protocol (WAP), which allowed the device to connect to the Internet, was introduced. 

The first mobile casino apps were developed on Nokia phones. In 2005, Pub Fruity was the first Java casino game for mobile phones. It had a bright display that looked like a vintage bar fruit machine. The game only had virtual rewards that could not be used in the real world. 

Despite the limitations, Pub fruity proved that online slot machines were not just limited to stationary computers and gaming consoles. When Apple rolled out the iPhone in 2007 and App Store in 2008, game developers saw the possibility of mobile gambling. Android smart devices were developed shortly after and joined the trend. 

In the 2010s, game developers began to create complex metagame features to support slots and keep players engaged for longer periods to improve gameplay experiences. Metagames features gave players various challenges, rewards, and gaming options. This increased the rate of user return for online slot gaming. 

The current marketplace for mobile slot games has become very competitive. As a result, developers are generating an even larger range of games with improved visuals and smooth gameplay to earn a favorable reputation. Gamblers may stay in bed, select from various games, and make money online without leaving the comfort of their homes. 

The birth of Megaways

Amidst the ground-breaking swooping change brought by metagame features, Nik Robinson developed Big Time Gaming at a development studio in Australia in 2011. Robison had his eyes set on online slot machines. The company was constantly searching for new mechanics to improve the gaming experience. 

After years of trial and testing, the Megaways™ brand was created in 2015. Megaways slots were launched in 2016 and became an instant game changer. The slots came equipped with six reels with up to 7 symbols, offering players 117,649 ways to win. The slots utilized Megaways random reel modifier to achieve this feat. 

The random reel modifier altered the number of symbols that landed on each reel and spin, resulting in thousands of distinct winning combinations. Megaways slot game players stood a chance to win more than 100,000 times their wager, with the multipliers changing with each round. These Megaways slot features retained the player’s attention. 

As mentioned earlier in the article, traditional online slot machines presented a player with a win through a determined way line. However, Megaways slots offer payouts as soon as you acquire the same symbol on adjacent reels, even if they are not aligned, giving you numerous additional possibilities to win big money in your favorite casino games.

Features of Megaways Slots

Megaways slots are most famous for the multiple options they offer their players to win big without necessarily having matching reels. The slot games that use the Megaways machine also offer features that keep players returning for more playtime. These features include: 

 

 

This feature causes the symbols that create a winning combination during a spin to vanish from the grid, making way for new ones to fall into their places. The consecutive chain of cascades creates an opportunity for players to have multiple wins from the same amount they initially invested. 

 

• Progressive win multiplier

 

This feature amplifies the cascading reels features. Specifically, it causes winning combinations to multiply with each consecutive cascade. Once the feature is included in a game, the multiplier increases depending on the number of cascades within one spin. The win multiplier in the regular game generally resets to one time once the spin ends. However, during Free Spins, it may only reset and increase once you finish your bonus spins.

 

 

It will depend on the game being played on how many free spins a player can enjoy. Free spins are usually triggered by a combination of three or more Scatter symbols anywhere on the grid. The Scatter emblem in many games will be something relevant to the game. Free spins work hand in hand with the progress win multiplier to improve a player’s winning odds. 

 

 

Return to Player is the average number of returns a player may expect while playing a slot machine. RTP is calculated in percentages, with the entire session bet amount accounting for 100% of the total. Before a slot is awarded an RTP value, RTP is determined using averages from millions of simulated spins.

This might sound like a long shot on paper, but the greater the RTP of a game, the more winning possibilities a player will have. Megaways slots are famous for having more RTP than the average online slot games. 

 

 

Wild symbols do not have predetermined functions but can greatly benefit a player. They could replace any other symbol on the reels and hence complete winning paylines that would not otherwise result in a win. The sole exception to this rule is that the wild symbol cannot replace scatter symbols, free spin symbols, or other bonus symbols.

The multiple features offered in Megaways slots pique new players’ interests while retaining seasoned players. Generally, Megaways slots have attracted the interest of many game developers who use the machine as a building block for new casino games and hence solidifying their dominance in online slots since 2016.  

Demerits of Megaways Slots

Despite the many merits of the slots, there are a few drawbacks. Here are some demerits that players must always consider:

 

 

The slots offer multiple winning chances. However, there is no direct correlation between winning combinations and big prizes. You could make more than 1000 times more than your invested amount, but you will need to invest more to stand a chance at winning the jackpot.

 

 

The average beginner starting to play online slot games will likely get overwhelmed by the different reel heights in Megaways slots. Traditional slot machines had a fixed number of symbols and reels. However, the first roll in Megaways slots can have four reels with a set of symbol combinations and increase to 6 reels with a different set of combinations. 

 

• Instances of reinventing the wheel

 

Many game developers tend to refurbish old beloved games to recreate their magic. This works for a few classic slot games that were developed before the invention of the Megaways engine. However, reinventing the wheel is only sometimes good. Certain beloved slot games were received better with their original system than Megaways slots. 

 

• Limited to certain countries

 

Megaways slots license providers are currently limited to European-facing online casinos. The big wins in the game are accessible once you unlock potential winning opportunities that are limited to European-facing online casinos.

Final Thoughts

Megaways slot machines revolutionized the online casino world. Compared to its ancestors born in the late 19th Century, Megaways slots offer various winning opportunities and cash prizes. Traditionally, you had to walk into a bar or casino to enjoy the thrill of playing the slots. These days you have the thrill at the palm of your hands.

The features offered by the slot games that operate on the Megaways systems constantly attract new players. Furthermore, the Return to Player features help boost your ability to win big with every round played. 

The Megaways slots might have limitations, considering that it was only born in 2016. Developers will keep improving and updating the systems as the years go by until they iron out the drawbacks. Depending on your location, you may test free versions of Megaways slots to discover all the fuss, even if you cannot play for real money.